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Disadvantages of Communication Technology

Communications technology also has some disadvantages on private and public life

The reduced social interaction that occurs due to increased use of communications technology can result in a lack of social learning. Common courtesy such as tact, politeness and listening skills may become obsolete. Professor Susan Greenfield of Oxford University christened this ‘infantalisation’ or childlike behaviour due to a lack of social skills.

Internet addiction is a huge problem, especially in South Korea where there are over 210,000 child internet addicts. Some of these children spend up to 18 hours a day on the internet.

Excessive time on the net can decrease an individuals ability to concentrate and apply themselves to something long term, such as to long-form reading. This is known as a reduction in ‘hedgehog type behaviour.’

Electronic communication does not allow for non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, to emphasize a message, which leaves messages open to misinterpretation.

The Digital Divide refers to the inequalities and differences that are born by the digital era. This divide includes disparities in age, race and income.

The huge free flow of information across the internet has allowed many individuals to bypass censorship in a variety of ways. This had led to a series of unlawful acts including data breaching, cyber bullying and child pornography. Complete and solid censorship is in the hands of ISP’s such as eircom and BT Ireland to uphold.